Health Check Incentive Merchandise Design Expressions of Interest

Central Australian Aboriginal Congress is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from Aboriginal artists to create a print or digital design suitable to be used to decorate merchandise to promote Medicare 715 Aboriginal Health Checks and other Congress related activities.

This project primary aims to promote health checks through culturally relevant artwork that connects with the Central Australian Aboriginal community.

Who can apply?

• Aboriginal artists and designers aged over 18 years who live in, or have a strong connection to Central Australia
• Emerging, mid-career and established artists
• Artists with availability to commit to the project timeframe and deliverables

How do I apply?

Submit your Artist Biography and proposal as detailed below – with examples of your existing artwork – using the online application form by 30 January 2026.

Submissions must be lodged via the online form, and include:

• Artist bio (up to 300 words): Share your artistic background and practice
• Artwork proposal (up to 300 words): Outline your concept and how it relates to health and wellbeing, and the medium it will be created on (digital, canvas etc)
• Portfolio: Provide up to five (5) examples of previous work.
• Confirmation of eligibility: Tell us your date of birth and address and all about your Aboriginal identity and connection to Central Australia.
• You must also read and acknowledge the EOI’s Terms & Conditions.

Timeline

• Successful applicant notified by: 13 February 2026
• Final artwork completed by: 13 March 2026

If you have access requirements or need assistance submitting your application, please contact Kate Buckland at kate.buckland@caac.org.au or by calling 0408 741 691.

Selection criteria

Submissions will be assessed based on:

• Strength and originality of the artistic vision
• Connection to Central Australian Aboriginal culture
• Relevance of the artwork to health and wellbeing
• Demonstrated ability to deliver work within the timeframe and in a suitable format. Digital vector art is preferred, but artwork that is easily digitised is a requirement.

What we are looking for

• Work created in digital or vector form will be viewed favourably
• Originality of work
• Art that connects with Aboriginal people in Central Australia
• Culturally relevant imagery
• Designs that communicate health or other relevant themes
• Works that will be eye-catching and engaging on merchandise include t-shirts, hats and other items

Themes that could be explored

For those who might need inspiration, here are some themes to consider:

• Preventative health care
• Indigenous perspectives on health and wellness
• Traditional foods and nutrition
• Physical activity and movement
• Family and community support
• Holistic approaches to health (physical, mental, spiritual, cultural)
• Traditional healing practices
• Connection to Country and its relationship to health
• Community strength and wellbeing

Payment & Support

The successful applicant will receive a payment of $6000 to complete the artwork, which will cover: the artist fee, licensing agreement providing Congress with the exclusive, unlimited right to reproduce the artwork, and any/all other costs related to the creation of the artwork.

Who will sit on the selection panel?

The selection panel is yet to be confirmed but will include a mix of Aboriginal representatives from Central Australian Aboriginal Congress.

Who will own the artwork and how will it be used?

Central Australian Aboriginal Congress will have an exclusive right to reproduce the artwork, meaning that the artist will retain the Cultural and Intellectual Property but Congress is permitted to use the artwork as detailed in the agreement. The artwork may be used in whole or part (as separate elements). The artwork will primarily be used on merchandise given to Aboriginal clients who complete a Medicare 715 Aboriginal Health Check. The artwork will also be used in promotional materials related to health checks and other Congress initiatives and may be used as part of Congress’ brand.

About The Project

The Health Check Incentive Design Project aims to create culturally relevant artwork that resonates with Aboriginal people in Central Australia while promoting the importance of regular health checks and other Congress health programs. The Medicare 715 Aboriginal Health Check is a comprehensive health assessment that helps identify health issues and prevent chronic disease.

This project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal people by creating artwork that encourages participation in preventative health measures.

About Central Australian Aboriginal Congress

For over 50 years, Central Australian Aboriginal Congress (Congress) has provided support and advocacy for Aboriginal people in the struggle for justice and equity.

Since that time, Congress has expanded to become the largest Aboriginal community-controlled health organisation in the Northern Territory, providing a comprehensive, holistic and culturally-appropriate primary health care service to Aboriginal people living in and nearby Alice Springs, including 8 nearby communities; Amoonguna, Ntaria (and Wallace Rockhole), Ltyentye Apurte (Santa Teresa), Utju (Areyonga), Mutitjulu, Kaltukatjara, Imanpa and Yulara.

Today, Congress is one of the most experienced Aboriginal primary health care services in the country, a strong political advocate of closing the gap on Aboriginal health disadvantage and a national leader in improving health outcomes for all Aboriginal people.